Owen believes interim head coach Rob Howley should take some brave decisions going into the championship decider, with his side needing an eight-point win over Grand Slam-chasing England to guarantee successfully defending the title.

"Wales should be bold and look to give him give him [Warburton] the captaincy and play him alongside Justin Tipuric and not worry too much about England and their line-out capability," said 41-times capped Owen.

"Sam is a big player and big players relish pressure. It inspires them and makes them play well. He would be the best choice of captain.

"It is [Ryan Jones' injury] a big blow for Wales definitely. Ryan has been playing really well and has come in a done a good job as captain as well, but I think it is one Wales can overcome with the quality of players they have got in reserve.

"Hopefully Justin Tipuric gets an opportunity to play alongside Sam Warburton. He has been the form forward in Wales certainly over the last 18 months and deserves an opportunity.

"I really hope we see Sam Warburton and Justin Tipuric play together and I think they will be able to make it really difficult for England."